Soul Challenge
My husband & I do a bit of an exercise regime most weekdays and during one online session the instructor said
“I want you to want to challenge yourself.”
In my early morning stupor, trying to just get through it, I was awakened to the thought, “Do I want to challenge myself?” Heretofore sprung upon me the annoying realization that I would really rather not right now, thank you. I’ll just float on through this workout.
Then my “committee of selves” quickly perked up and said “Now wait, who’s in charge here, the body or the will?” And my inner self, trying not to listen then realized, I’m going to drift into something I do not want to be if I don’t stand up and make a choice here. So, with the Spirit’s nudge and my husband’s eagerness, I took the challenge to challenge myself and did a hard workout. I hadn’t been that sore in a while. 
And what about our souls? Do we want to want to challenge our soul to growth? It is much easier to drift and go on yesterday’s learnings and achievements. But there’s new learning, challenges and dangers today; especially in our tumultuous world! The Apostle Peter urged us to “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord…” after saying, “be on your guard so that you are not carried away…” 2 Peter 3:17,18
Take a few moments to sit and ponder.
How are you growing in grace?
Grace toward yourself recognizing your frailty and allowing God to come into your frailty and transform. Not trying to make yourself better for him. That won’t work.
Grace toward others you are struggling with, to understand them, see their perspective, pray for them, forgive them and find a helpful place and time to listen and dialog.
How are you growing in knowledge of God?
Is He still #1? How does your life show that? “If anyone loves Me he will keep my Word.” John 14:23
Where are your heart’s affections? This takes some thought…
He longs to expand us and deepen us. We need His power to even be able to receive the kind of love He has for us…today.
“So take diligent heed to yourselves to love the Lord your God.” Joshua 23:11
(Loving Him means receiving His love first.)